Monica Brown is no rookie to the game—whether its R&B tales of heartache or real-life woes, she’s been up and down and everything in between. She’s now a mother of three and a basketball wife, but don’t let the stability fool you. Even with the current success of her eighth studio album, Code Red, she’s hungry for more and has never felt quite as resilient. It’s time to get reacquainted with everybody’s favorite homegirl.

BY SATCHEL B. JESTER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DREXINA NELSON | STYLING BY SHUN MELSON | HAIR BY RAY DODSON | FACE BY MARSHA SAINTIL

STELLA MCCARTNEY, NEIMAN MARCUS ATLANTA GOWN

“People wouldn’t really be able to imagine the things I’ve seen and been through,” says Monica Brown, in response to the suggestion that she’s guarded. Never one to shy away from a challenge or discomfort, the singer jumps right in. “My talent has always been there, along with the spiritual foundation my mother laid, but there was always another side, a side that belonged to the streets. When my parents divorced, I became two different people.”

I first met Monica Denise Arnold in 1991, when we were both students at North Clayton Middle School. And the two sides of her persona were evident then. She was an older soul, “grown-acting” as we say in the South. Today, as we speak at the photo shoot for this cover, I notice that Monica, 35, has not changed that much since we first met in junior high school. She’s always flaunted a bravado that was undeniably more massive than her featherweight frame. From a presence that dominated our neighborhood school bus, to singular vocal ability that filled our school’s gymnasium as powerfully as the coterie of Friday night cheers, Monica has always been an amalgam of confidence and power in motion. But, there’s an indescribable element about Monica that can draw someone in, but also keep them at a specific distance as if to protect her aura. She’s the girl next door, yet an enigma all the same. Both her fans and critics easily champion her success, while in the same breath roll off a list of what she should’ve or could’ve done. But, make no mistake, Monica is absolutely conscious of her winning. It all began with a young girl audacious enough to introduce herself to the world as “Miss Thang.”

The year is 1995 and a 15-year-old Monica Denise Arnold is at the moment of reckoning. Although she isn’t quite old enough to attain a driver’s license, she does not mind calling the shots with her producer Dallas Austin, who is already a stamped superstar for his multi-platinum success with Boyz II Men, TLC and Madonna. They were working tirelessly at Austin’s D.A.R.P. studios, placing the final touches on what would become her triple-platinum debut album, Miss Thang. The project’s three-year developmental period transformed her from a wide-eyed and power-piped College Park, GA innocent, into the feisty and focused fireball, who would become the South’s newest MVP.

The album’s title track declared how she wanted to be recognized:

“Couldn’t wait to understand, I grew up faster than the rest/ it affected the ways of my attitude /but don’t take it as I’m rude/ Now, I’m fly as I can be/ got responsibilities/but I know when I’m right, I’m right/and when I’m wrong as I can be.”

SMYTHE, NORDSTROM ATLANTA BLAZER

Twenty-one years later, Monica only remembers just being herself. “Dallas would bring producers in the studio to play records for me and I’d be quick to say ‘No’ if I didn’t feel it. I knew who I was and what I wanted to say.” She pauses and smiles. “That’s where ‘Miss Thang’ came from. He’d say, ‘Miss Thang don’t like it!’” She laughs, but only for a second, as she instinctively reverts back to her signature steeliness.

Monica has never been one to lurk in the past, but she also refuses to gloss over the pivotal moments of her journey. Often paved with violence, death and steady tears, her experiences have been, at times, arguably too intense for someone her age at the time. However, she showed up, smiled and sang while attempting to hold fast to being music’s promising new darling.

Aside from “normal” occurrences such as opening a door and witnessing heads being bashed in or having a front row seat to the the drug game, there was the arrest of her first love Corey Miller (brother of Master P), allegedly for murder and the suicide death of her next beau, which she witnessed. But, she knows the tragedy and her ultimate triumph all occurred for reasons bigger than her.

“As I think back over everything I’ve accomplished in my career—the awards, opportunities and exposure are all there, of course. But, what gives me unspeakable joy is the fact that I’ve touched countless women, and some young men, along the way with my music and my message,” she says with a blend of pragmatism and passion. “To know that I was helping to save lives while feeling like my own was in the process of ending, means more than any manufactured victory ever could.”

SHUNMELSON.COM BLACK SHEER SKIRT, DONNA KAREN SAKS ATLANTA BLACK BODYSUIT, GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI ATLANTA GIUSEPPE BLACK SHOES, ALEXIS BITAR NORDSTROM ATLANTA GOLD NECKLACE

Our chat is interrupted as the singer is pulled away for a quick wardrobe fitting. Hair tied, chilling with no makeup on, Rodney (10), Romelo (8) and Laiyah’s (2) mom looks as fresh-faced as she did decades ago in the black-and-white, Rich Murray-directed Don’t Take It Personal (Just One of Dem Days) video. As she peruses the rack of clothes pulled for today’s cover shoot, she’s quiet, yet confident. She eyes a few matching, paired pieces and disapproves. “It’s too baby doll and I don’t do baby doll,“ she informs. The small collection of meaningful tattoos placed carefully around her body are colorful proof. Another look is referenced as one she’s recently seen on the runway, another concept she’s also no stranger to. During her long career, the leggy, 5’10”, sample-sized dame has donned exclusive couture, pumped down runways around the world and was a muse of Chanel’s Karl Lagerfield pre-Rita Ora, Kendall Jenner and Janelle Monae. “I’ve been there and done that,” she says easily, but impressively, without a hint of jadedness. “I remember speaking with Karl and him telling me what ‘we’ were going to wear, and what his thoughts for me were. I’ve had moments that some [will not recognize] because social media wasn’t a thing back then. They weren’t done for the ‘Gram, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t happen.”

Monica’s now seated at the well-lit vanity and the primping and polishing is yet again underway. In the midst of the beauty process, I transition to a subject that could potentially get ugly—the tendency for people to deem her an underdog.

“I know people have called me the underdog,” Monica says. “I was even told the kiss of death would be the four years I took off after the birth of my boys,” she begins. “I’ve executed my career exactly how I’ve wanted to and that’s the most important thing. And if I am an underdog because I’ve chosen to put my family first, to be guided by my spirituality or allow true love to be my solace, then so be it.”

Monica’s phone rings with an incoming Face-Time call from her husband of six years, NBA player Shannon Brown. “Hey babe,” she answers, her eyes glowing brighter than her snowy white teeth. They discuss Romelo’s coming birthday and the exciting surprise gift they’re giving him. She feels my stare and looks my way, “We try not to go overboard,” she says to possibly downplay the oft presented “celebrities spoil their kids” notion. I smile in acknowledgement and leave the room.

Back on set, Monica launches into action, reminding everyone of who the star is. “After my hiatus, I bounced back with Still Standing and both the album and television show went well. It quieted all the naysayers, but echoed in my soul,” she says. “You just have to be sure and act on what you know to be true.”

I reference the regard her colleagues and contemporaries hold her in. Never one to get caught in cyber fights or social breakdowns, many who can’t say the same hold Monica in the same esteem as they do their mother. “It’s funny,” she begins. “People call me mama, even when some of them are older than me. I know it’s because I show and give love and I never speak with malice towards anyone. I’ve learned the power of the tongue and I know how impactful words can be.”

Nicki Minaj recently spent her birthday at Monica’s concert and chronicled the show with admiration, tweeting “Love you Monica. Your concert made my bday Everything Toooo Meeeeeee (your voice).” R&B rebel K. Michelle surprised fans in Atlanta with a several song set from Brown and could barely introduce her without coming to tears, crediting her with giving her hope and admiration. However, never forget Miss Thang is still on deck. “Please don’t get me wrong, I will get someone together, quickly,” she interjects. “You will not come at me wrong without repercussions.”

ALEXIS LACE JUMPER, NEIMAN MARCUS ATLANTA, GUISEPPE ZANOTTI ATLANTA SHOES

As the shoot comes to an end, Mo, as her family and friends call her, has relaxed. The room now includes her cousin and manager, Melinda, her squad and her husband. She feels safe. “Street Symphony,” an ode to loving a man who loves the streets from her also triple-platinum sophomore album, The Boy Is Mine, blares through the speakers. I catch her eye and ask what the song means to her now. “Nothing,” she says quickly and plainly. “If anything, I remember shooting the video at midnight in Los Angeles, but the statute of limitations on the real meaning has expired. I’m not there anymore and I’m glad.”

In this space, Monica is good. She recalls some advice from her dear friend, Whitney Houston, which she’s taken with her throughout her entire career. “When I met Whitney, she told me I reminded her of herself.” I agree with Monica, having also spent time with Houston before her untimely death in 2012. During Houston’s performance at the historic DAR Constitution Hall in 1997, she beckoned Monica to the stage as only Whitney could, singing “Monica, you’ve gotta shoop for me. Please, baby.” Brown’s youthful smile, accessorized with braces, prefaces a soulful call-and-response exchange with Houston, ending in praise from the legendary diva. “That girl can sing. I had the pleasure of working with her in the studio and she scared me. She can go,” Whitney reported. Along with her beauty and jaw-dropping vocal ability, like Whitney, Monica’s life is deeply-rooted in family and the church, paralleled by not-so-holy surroundings at times. “Whitney said, ‘Don’t let them make you what they want you to be,’” Monica remembers. “‘You know who you are.’ I did, and still do, and that’s just what it is.”

Shannon approaches the set and his wife smiles excitedly, the platinum and diamonds in her teeth shine like the North Star. The duo hug, kiss a little and whisper to each other: Mrs. Brown films their G-rated love scene with her iPhone. Their transparent intimacy makes it easy to understand the sincerity of her current hit, “Just Right For Me.” It’s an ode to the old thing they’ve got: love. She’s touring in support of Code Red and diving more deeply into acting. “That’s a wrap,” the shoot director shouts. Today’s task may be over, but she says her life is just beginning. “I’m happy and loving music again. My family is healthy and my heart is full. That’s what we ultimately live for, right?”

Indeed, Miss Thang. Indeed.

When an Associated Press reporter asked Gabrielle Union to comment on Stacey Dash‘s assertion that Black History Month and BET are forms of segregation, the Being Mary Jane star replied, “Who’s Stacey Dash?”

“Is she like related to Dame Dash? Was she on Roc-A-Fella?” Union continued to joke. “I heard of a crazy lady once, but I don’t know what her name is.” The hashtag #WhoIsStaceyDash began appearing on Twitter soon after.

But this week, Union, who was attending the Sundance Film Festival to support The Birth of a Nation which she also appears in, got serious about the lack of diversity at the Oscars and Hollywood.

“If you don’t see yourself reflected in mainstream awards, you tend to create your own,” she said. “Until there is no longer a need for that, I celebrate the ALMAs [American Latino Media Arts Awards], the same way I celebrate the Country Music Awards, and the same way I celebrate the BET Awards and the Image Awards, which we’ll all be at in a couple of weeks. The more that we focus on inclusion and a true representation of this country, I think that crazy lady will have less to say.”

The Birth of a Nation was written and directed by Nate Parker, who also stars in the film about the slave rebellion Nat Turner led in 1831, and is expected in theaters this year.

“We’re hearing a lot about diversity. I hate that word so, so much … I feel it’s a medicinal word that has no emotional resonance, and this is a really emotional issue. It’s emotional for artists who are women and people of color to have less value placed on our worldview. There’s a belonging problem in Hollywood. Who dictates who belongs? The very body who dictates that looks all one way. Change has to happen, it has to happen with the people who dictate who belongs. It’s disconcerting to hear people say that shouldn’t change. That’s the very reason it should.”

— Ava DuVernay speaks at a lunch during the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah Sunday. DuVernay’s speech came 48 hours after the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which for the second year in a row failed to nominate any actors of color for an Oscar, announced it voted unanimously to dramatically increase the number of minority and women members and, more controversially, to do away with lifetime voting rights for its members.

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[Image: Instagram]

By Satchel B. Jester

Nathan Hale Williams has a way with the ladies. In fact, he’s currently engaging with four women who are taking him on the journey of his lifetime in his debut novel, Ladies Who Lunch & Love. In the juicy page-turner, the multi-talented writer, producer, actor and former attorney introduces us to four fabulous New York society women navigating life and love while sharing their best friend. Not your typical real housewives, these down-to-earth, relatable women know how to fully seize the day while also boldly confronting life’s challenges.

“With Ladies, I originally set out to write a book of short stories based on the Essence column I wrote for over four years, but I didn’t want to write a preachy love and relationship book. After reading the first draft, my editor, Cherise Fisher, pushed me to turn the book into a novel and I am so glad she did,” says Hale. “It’s always been my goal to encourage people to live their best lives right where they are—flaws and all. I’ve been fortunate that I’ve been able to express this across various platforms from film to television and now, in a novel.”

Williams, 39, plans to breathe more life into the book with an upcoming sequel, movie or series, but only after he completes the script for The Second Act, a film he’s co-writing with actress and friend Jenifer Lewis (Blackish), and writes and directs 90 Days, a film addressing HIV/AIDS in the Black community. “I literally have enough creative ideas to last four lifetimes because I’m inspired by the slightest things,” he gushes. “But, for now, I’m living in a WOW moment and it’s absolutely amazing.”

Beyond shedding the holiday pounds, the beginning of the year is the perfect time to assess your finances and ensure they are just as healthy as that kale smoothie you have pledged to drink every morning.

By Lisa Frison,
Vice President, African American
Segment Strategy Leader, Wells Fargo

New Year’s resolutions are easier said than done, which is why most fail. So, this year map out a plan for success by adopting these ten habits for refreshing your finances in 2016. Give yourself permission to pick one to two things and stick with it. Consistency is key to building great financial habits. You’ll be much better off if you start small than not at all.

1. PREPARE A BUDGET:
   A budget is the best tool for tracking your hard-earned dollars and staying within your limit. According to a Wells Fargo study, when it comes to budgeting, less than half (46 percent) of African Americans have a detailed budget to manage their spending. However, they are doing better than overall population, with only 37 percent having a detailed budget. Understanding your sources of income is a good starting point in creating a bud-get. After you have a good grasp of your income, tracking your expenses will help you manage your money more wisely. Here’s how:
   • Gather your financial statements
   • Create a list of monthly expenses
   • Examine the type of expenses—fixed, flexible of discretionary
2. PAY YOURSELF FIRST.
   It may seem unrealistic to talk about paying yourself first when you’re faced with so many other financial obligations. Yet, while it’s criti-cal to pay all your bills on time, planning for your future can’t always take the back seat. Try taking these steps to get into the habit:
   • Figure out how much you can afford
   • Set a personal payment goal
   • Create a savings strategy (one of my favorite things is to use any money from rebates, re-turns and gifts and add to my savings)
3. AUTOMATE:
   To ensure you never miss a payment, sign up for an automatic payment option for your credit cards, utilities, student loans, and any-thing else that you normally have to remember each month. Not only will you get more time back in your day, but you’ll also force yourself to stay on top of your finances.
4. MANAGE CASH FLOW AND SAVINGS:
   Online tools such as the Wells Fargo Budget Watch can make the process of tracking your spending completely automatic. If you choose to track spending manually, get into the habit of consistently following a few basic practices:
   • Save receipts
   • Use your debit or credit card
   • Update your records
   • Review the results
5. REDUCE YOUR DEBT.
   If you find that you’re paying down your debt each month, but your balance doesn’t seem to budge, you may want to take a look at your payment strategy. Here are a few tips to help you make more headway:
   • Organize your debt
   • Prioritize your payments
   • Consolidate your debt
6. SAVE FOR AN EMERGENCY.
   While the size of your emergency fund will vary depending on your lifestyle, monthly costs, income, and dependents, the rule of thumb is to put away at least three to six months’ worth of expenses. This amount can seem daunting at first, but the idea is to put a small amount away each week or two to build up to that goal.
7. BE A SMART SHOPPER:
   As Donna Summer says, “she works hard for the money,” so make the most of the money you have. Whether it’s your paycheck, a tax refund or a gift, set aside some of that money for unexpected expenses and future goals. The ability to afford large purchases like a car, a home, or higher education will require saving a significant amount, gradually, over time.
8. EVALUATE MAJOR PURCHASES:
   We all want to reward our hard work with things we desire, but for major purchases ask yourself: “Do I really need this?” Decide how much you can afford to spend on the purchase and still cover your other expenses. You want to avoid having the latest “it” bag at the expense of a late notice on your car note.
9. AVOID OVERSPENDING.
   Keeping an accurate record of your transactions is the best way to avoid spending more money than you have in your account. It is always important for you to know your avail-able balance before you make a payment or purchase. Consider setting up balance alerts through your bank to give you a text or an email whenever you dip below a certain amount of money.
10. KEEP TRACK OF YOUR ACCOUNT.
    Whether you track spending manually or use an automated tool, regularly make time to evaluate your spending history to identify trends. You may be surprised to discover how much you spent on luxury purchases, restaurant meals, or other incidentals. As you review the information, this can help you find opportunities to cut costs.

[Image: Shutterstock]

Maisha Wynn raises the stakes of personal success.

By Erica Color

Lifestyle specialist Maisha S. Wynn breathes life into the mantra “a changed mind is a made-up mind” and operates under the notion that we are the masters of our own fate. These beliefs have been the basis for content she’s developed as a writer for various national publications over the years. Now, the Chicago-based influencer is presenting her debut book, The Wynning Way: A Guide to Creating Success Your Way, an inspirational manual offering tangible advice for success and achievement—and, more importantly, ways to appropriate Wynn’s signature positivity and ambition. Wynn is the former national advertising director of UPTOWN Media Group, where she utilized her charm and marketing skills to craft partnerships with luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz, Harry Winston and Salvatore Ferragamo. Now, as an author, her work is praised by notables, such as legendary actress Sheryl Lee Ralph. Readers will delve into personal strategy and self-actualization through sections including “Invest in Others,” Mind Your Thoughts,” “Plan Your Wynns,” and “Treasure Your Temple.” Each chapter ends with an activity and action items that encourages one to double down and place all bets on self. Are you ready to Wynn?

RELATED: The Wynning Way Book Signing

An unseasonably warm winter gave reason to dress up and hit the NYC party circuit.

By Musa Jackson

Musa Jackson & Elizabeth Hurley

The Apollo Justice Ball honored the legendary artist, activist and Harlemite Harry Belafonte, immigration activist Alida Garcia and The Central Park Five. Hosted by TVOne host Roland Martin, performers included Machel Montano, V. Bozeman and Harlem’s IMPACT (Empire’s Jussie Smollett and HOT 97’s Ebro paid homage).

The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, now 90 years young, hosted a screening of the documentary, Harlem On My Plate, featuring celebrity chefs Alexander Smalls and Marcus Samuelsson and the First Family of Soul Food Sylvia’s Restaurant with a Q& A led by family spokes person TreNess Woods Black. In attendance: Harlemite, restaurateur and media personality Melba Wilson (look out for her new cook-book in 2016) and author and TV producer George Alexander.

Downtown, in Chelsea, at the Hoerle-Guggenhiem Gallery, Spirit & Flesh magazine celebrated their Passion issue with stunning cover girl, actress Elizabeth Hurley. I celebrated alongside longtime friend and guest editor, superstar stylist Freddie Leiba, the cast of E! Network’s The Royals (on which Hurley stars), music artist Farrah Boule, fashion designer Norisol, photographer Ruven Afanador, Vanity Fair’s George Wayne, style icon Amy Fine Colin, artist Rebecca Moses and (looking fabulous) singer Maxwell.

The ultra-wealthy descended on the Park Avenue Armory to attend the opening night of the Salon Art + Design, which hosts the world’s finest galleries in historical, modern and contemporary art and design. My friend Lou Iacovelli, CEO of Atelier, produced the event. Lou represents legendary photographer Bruce Weber and iconic designer Jean Paul Gaultier (for whom I had the pleasure of modeling for years ago). I was thrilled to view this pre-Art Basel showing of 55 international galleries from 10 countries with household names Temple St. Clair, Goyard and Picasso. Ferrari, the event’s official auto-motive sponsor, wowed guests with the brand’s exhibit California T: State of the Art (hands down, my favorite).

Red Rooster recently celebrated their 5th anniversary with an intimate gathering. But, the real tea: they are quietly venturing into the record business. Along with 103.9 FM’s DJ Terry Bello, the Harlem eatery, helmed by Marcus Samuelsson, is launching its own signature record label. It only makes (dollars and) sense with all the amazing talent that comes through Ginny’s Supper Club (which is below Red Rooster).

The Harlem Shakespeare Festival in conjunction with Take Wing And Soar Productions and Voza River’s New Heritage Theater produced Othello: The Moor of Venice. Tony winner Trezana Beverley directed the epic tale of love and hate with an excellent all-female, multi-racial cast topped by a masterful performance by Debra Ann Byrd as Othello.

Los Angeles producer Dawn M. Haynes brought Hollywood to Harlem in the form of talented actress and singer Tichina Arnold for two sold out shows. Tichina’s powerful performance at Gin Fizz, which I hosted, wowed the crowd, which included Beyoncé’s stylist and creative director Ty Hunter, James Germany, Patrick Riley, Anthony Harper, Tammy Ford and ’90s R&B group Allure to their feet. She pulled both R&B legend Freddie Jackson and singer/songwriter Inaya Day onstage: both sang their faces off.

The Apollo Theater hosted the Je Suis Soul Festival, featuring the sexy sister duo Les Nubians. Also, the festival welcomed back to the main stage, 43 years later, the legendary Manu Dibango, with his timeless hit “Soul Makoussa.” But, Harlem wasn’t ready for a new voice who electrified the crowd and melted hearts: sexy French soul superstar Ben L’Oncle Soul is definitely one to watch. Happy New Year!

Since NBC fired Donald Trump from Celebrity Apprentice for his racist remarks on immigrants, Arnold Schwarzenegger will take the helm of the business-oriented competition show. Joining him on season eight of Celebrity Apprentice are Porsha Williams, Laila Ali, and Tyra Banks.

Williams and Ali will compete with former professional basketball player Lisa Leslie, actress and model Brooke Burke-Charvet, former professional football player Eric Dickerson, entertainer Boy George, comedian Matt Iseman, TV personality Carrie Keagan, TV host Carson Kressley, comedian Jon Lovitz, vocalist Vince Neil, reality TV personality Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi, reality TV personality Kyle Richards, mixed martial artist Chael Sonnen, retired professional football player Ricky Williams, and singer Carnie Wilson.

Media mogul and businesswoman Banks, along with business magnate Warren Buffet; businessman Steve Ballmer; actress and businesswoman Jessica Alba; and entertainment attorney Patrick Knapp Schwarzenegger, who is also Arnold Schwarzenegger’s nephew, will serve as advisers to the contenders.

Production of Celebrity Apprentice has been moved from New York to Los Angeles now that Arnold Schwarzenegger is at the helm. The facility is located in the Silicon Beach technology hub of L.A. And this season the business-oriented tasks will focus on technology and innovation.

The winner will receive a check for $250,000 for the charity of their choice.

Will you watch?

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On Wednesday, Jan. 27th, Tyra Banks and Norwegian photographer Erik Asla announced that her son York Banks Asla was born via gestational surrogate.

“We are so excited for our new baby boy bundle of joy. The journey to now has not been an easy process, as I’ve shared before. But there was a beautiful bright light at the end of the tunnel for me and his father, Erik,” she told

“As I gaze into the beautiful eyes of my son, I think about all the people who struggle with fertility or carrying a child and continue to pray for them every day,” the 42-year-old new mom continued. “My hopes and dreams are filled with well wishes that they get to feel what my little treasure, York Banks Asla, feels like in my arms.”

Tyra also took to Instagram to express her joy.

Keep clicking to see which other celebrities chose surrogacy to increase their families.

Lucy Liu welcomed her son Rockwell Lloyd Liu on Aug. 27, 2015.

Perez Hilton has two children born via a surrogate mother: Mario Armando Lavandeira III (born February 17, 2013) and Mia Alma Lavandeira (born May 9, 2015).

Michael Jackson‘s youngest son Prince Michael Jackson II was born via a surrogate on Feb. 21, 2002.

Ricky Martin‘s twin sons, Matteo and Valentino, were born via a surrogate in August 2008.

George Lucas and his wife Mellody Hobson welcomed a surrogate daughter, Everest Hobson Lucas, in August 2013.

Robert De Niro and Toukie Smith were separated when a surrogate gave birth to their twin sons Julian Henry and Aaron Kendrick in 1995. De Niro also welcomed a baby girl with wife Grace Hightower via surrogate in 2011.

Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance tried unsuccessfully for seven years to have children, but welcomed twins, Bronwyn Golden and Slater Josiah, in January 2006.

By now you should have heard that Beyonce will be joining Coldplay during the Super Bowl Halftime Show. It’s quite likely the band will perform their new single “Hymn for the Weekend,” which features Bey. In anticipation of the performance Coldplay recently released the song’s music video that was shot in India much to the chagrin of some Indian people, who say the band and Beyonce have appropriated Indian culture.

The “Hymn for the Weekend” video features slum children, fire breathers, and Coldplay “playing Holi in the streets,” reports BuzzFeed. Bey stars in the video as a Bollywood actress.

While others have praised the music video online, others have labeled Coldplay and Beyonce cultural appropriators.

Just gonna throw this out there, if Beyoncé&Coldplay are PROFITING from a culture that isn’t there’s and gaining praise, it’s appropriation

— cazafortuna (@caramelputa) January 29, 2016

Coldplay makes music for affluent whites who travel arnd the world to shower poor black & brown kids in their performative tears x

— ya faddas a dickhead (@ASiamesePunk) January 29, 2016

Wanna depict #India, understand its rich & diverse culture first! Going with ago old stereotypes is not done! #HymnForTheWeekend #Coldplay

— Amena (@Fashionopolis) January 29, 2016

@coldplay don’t exoticize us. You’ve been to the clubs and everything.Why do you want to make it seem like all we do is dance in the streets

— yung biryani (@BiryaniZiall) January 29, 2016

Are we gonna discuss how Beyonce dressing up as an Indian woman for the Coldplay video is cultural appropriation, or no?

— Sixo, (@thesalteater) January 29, 2016

you guys gonna let this slide cos it’s Bey? or can we talk about how she’s disrespecting my culture :) pic.twitter.com/FCwcDDdH3D

— hana ✨ (@veIveteendream) January 29, 2016

“Why aren’t y’all attacking Beyonce for cultural appropriation?” pic.twitter.com/ZAQ9nJJUAt

— reggie (@1942bs) January 29, 2016

Of course people let Beyoncé off for cultural appropriation it’s the privilege of being overrated I guess

— Martijn Spears (@MartijnPOP) January 29, 2016

ON KENTUCKY AVENUE: A CELEBRATION OF ATLANTIC CITY’S HISTORIC CLUB HARLEM
RETURNS TO THE CITY COLLEGE CENTER FOR THE ARTS FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Popular musical on integrated club in a then-segregated Atlantic City
runs Friday, February 19, to Sunday, February 21

Back by popular demand, On Kentucky Avenue: A Celebration of Atlantic City’s Historic Club Harlem returns to City College’s performing arts center Aaron Davis Hall on Friday, February 19, for a three-day encore engagement. The show, which shines a red-hot spotlight on a little-known piece of Black history and a famed club that came out of the segregation era, is presented by the City College Center for the Arts (CCCA) and Byron and Sylvia Lewis. An audience favorite, last February, the production was created by Jeree Wade and directed and written by Adam Wade with Ty Stephens.

Called “one of New York’s most magical and electric shows” by Broadway After Dark, the musical is fictional but inspired by real people in a real place: Kentucky Avenue in racially segregated Atlantic City, New Jersey, one of the premier night spots for Black entertainment in the country. Summers were hot, not only because of the balmy beach weather but also by virtue of the sizzling music and dance emanating from the clubs on the block.

The most famous spot of all in the beach town was Club Harlem, named in honor of the genre of Black live entertainment that was fast-paced, jazzy and pulsating, with dancers, singers, elegant showgirls, comedians and specialty acts. In the ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s, it was one of the hottest “Chittlin’ Circuit” clubs—a collection of performance venues that Black entertainers could tour and perform in during racial segregation in America, and establishments that African-American audiences could patronize. Performers at the “Black Copacabana” included Ella Fitzgerald, Richard Pryor, Sammy Davis Jr., Nancy Wilson, Billy Daniels, Moms Mabley, Duke Ellington, Slappy White, Sarah Vaughan and the Temptations, but headliners from neighboring clubs would often stop by for Club Harlem’s 5 a.m. show—renowned entertainers like Frank Sinatra, Milton Berle, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. Where other Chitlin’ Circuit clubs were segregated, Club Harlem was integrated in a segregated city, with local Whites and casino patrons as well as Blacks locally and from the eastern seaboard flocking there to enjoy the acts.

“On Kentucky Avenue offers a fantastic opportunity to present an exciting nugget of our past in an imaginative, fresh way,” said Byron and Sylvia Lewis, who also serve as CCCA Advisory Board members. “The music and the talent of this cast transport audiences to an era when music was rich and shows featured intricate dancing that kept you entranced.”

“On Kentucky Avenue is a fitting experience in Aaron Davis Hall given its history and CCCA’s mission. Many of the artists who performed at Club Harlem entertained audiences at Aaron Davis Hall, including Ella Fitzgerald, Nancy Wilson and Chuck Jackson,” said CCCA Managing Director Gregory Shanck. “In fact, Ella Fitzgerald, along with Mikhail Baryshnikov and others, performed at the opening of the building.”

The setting is the 1969 season opening night dress rehearsal. A love triangle develops between producer Ivan King (Ty Stephens), the lead showgirl Betty Jo Stanton (Renee Ternier) and her best friend the featured female vocalist Pauline Pierce (Andricka Hall). Jeree Wade makes a special appearance as Damita Jo, a popular singer who often opened the summer entertainment season. The production features Lee Summers as Slappy Black and Joseph Wiggans as Jimmy Coles. Rounding out the ensemble are Carmen Carriker, Donna Clark, Gregory J. Hanks, Mindy Haywood, Olutayo, Cassandra Palacio, Devin Price, Zhana Saunders and Garrett Turner. Keeping the music flowing each night is the Freddie Baxter Band, which includes: Frank Owens as Freddie Baxter (piano), Wilbur Bascomb as Odell Craft (bass), David Silliman as Sticks (drums), Richard Cummings Jr. as Vincent Campbell (synthesizer) and Jack Cavari as Colombo (guitar).

On Kentucky Avenue is produced by Adam Wade, Robert R. Blume, Songbirds Unlimited Productions and Cobi Narita. Scenic design is by Ty Stephens, Piero Ramos and Yvette Spellman, choreography by Ty Stephens and swing choreographer and tap consulting by Mickey Davidson, costume design by Pearl Williams and Ty Stephens and music direction by Frank Owens. On Kentucky Avenue features ’60s chart-topping music plus an original score true to the era by Ty Stephens, Frank Owens, Wilbur Bascomb, Branice McKenzie, Adam Wade and Jeree Wade.

Performances are Friday, February 19 at 7 p.m., Saturday, February 20 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, February 21 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at http://www.citycollegecenterforthearts.org/ or through the box office by telephone at (212) 650-6900 or in person (Monday through Friday from 12 noon to 6 p.m.). Aaron Davis Hall is located on the campus of the City College of New York, at West 135th Street and Convent Avenue (129 Convent Avenue).

City College Center for the Arts can be followed on Twitter at @ccnyarts. For the latest news on the production, follow #OnKentuckyAve or #OKAatCCCA or visit http://www.onkentuckyavenue.com/.

The production is being made possible by FreshDirect.

ABOUT THE CITY COLLEGE CENTER FOR THE ARTS:
The City College Center for the Arts is responsible for the planning and presentations of performing and visual arts programs on the campus of the City College of New York with specific attention to City College’s performing arts center Aaron Davis Hall. The corporation is also responsible for raising funds that will allow the arts to continue to thrive and grow creating a more dynamic City College experience for all. Our mission is to provide a creative arts center and focal point for The City College of New York, building a sense of community within the College, elevating the profile of Aaron Davis Hall in the greater New York area, and connecting the College to the surrounding community through the arts.

In direct contrast to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which didn’t nominate any actors of color for an Oscar for the second year in a row, the Screen Actors Guild honored the work of several Black actors during the SAG Awards show Saturday, Jan. 30th.

The Guild recognized Black actors big time for their roles on the small screen: Idris Elba for his role in Luther, Viola Davis for How to Get Away With Murder, Uzo Aduba for Orange Is the New Black, and Queen Latifah for starring as blues singer Bessie Smith in Bessie.

Elba also took home a SAG Award for best supporting actor for his performance in Beasts of No Nation, which was completely overlooked by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Elba called out the Academy by simply stating, “Welcome to diverse TV,” while accepting his award.

Queen Latifah applauded the Screen Actors Guild for its diversity not only among award recipients, but also among its members. “This is what happens when you have the SAG group—a group of very diverse people who understand the work that we all put in and that we all deserve the same opportunities,” she told the Los Angeles Times backstage.

Davis echoed Latifah’s sentiment when speaking backstage. “This always means a lot because it’s voted on by actors,” she said while holding her SAG Award.

The SAG Awards are determined by the 116,741 SAG-AFTRA members.

[Main image: Instagram]

This was a big weekend in Los Angeles, as the 22nd Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards were held Saturday night. But over in Detroit, Snoop Dogg was lending his support to the people of Flint, Mich. who are facing a classist and racially-motivated water crisis. Oh, and Kerry Washington celebrated her birthday at one of the most magical places on Earth.

Idris Elba enjoyed a three-man party with his SAG Awards after winning for Luther and Beasts of No Nation on Saturday, Jan. 30th.

Queen Latifah accepted her SAG Award for her role as Bessie Smith in Bessie.

Viola Davis expressed gratitude to the Screen Actors Guild for recognizing her performance in How to Get Away with Murder.

Adepero Oduye and Uzo Aduba, who was recognized by the Screen Actors Guild for her role in Orange is the New Black, were all smiles at the SAG Awards.

The Straight Outta Compton cast — Aldis Hodge, Jason Mitchell, Neil Brown Jr., O’Shea Jackson Jr., and Corey Hawkins — enjoyed the SAG Awards after not only being shunned by the Oscars, but also not invited to the awards show.

Taye Diggs prepped his Alfred Dunhill look backstage of the SAGs.

Kerry Washington, who was awarded the Harvard Hasty Pudding Woman of the Year award last week, celebrated her birthday at Disneyland Saturday night.

Naomi Campbell showed off a behind-the-scenes image from the spring photo shoot for Yamamay lingerie, which was shot by famed photographer Mario Testino.

Snoop Dogg not only supported the people of Flint, Mich. by bringing bottled water to the area and organizing a concert, but also sat down with Flint Mayor Karen Weaver.

By Patrick T. Cooper

The world of fashion and design is challenging. Most designers work diligently to achieve their goals in a treacherous terrain of glamour and baubles. The road to success for minority designers can be even more challenging. However as the cliché states, the cream will rise to the top.

Dazzling red carpets and embellishing editorial pages is my job. None of which, over the past 15 years as a veteran celebrity fashion stylist, would be possible without some amazingly talented designers. It’s time for you to hover ahead of the curve and marvel in my secret cache of fashion artisans and craftsmen.

KZ Noel creative director Keisha Noel takes inspiration from her global travels to create one-of-a-kind works of art that adorn the wrists and necks of her consumers. Noel masterfully curates different textures and stones to set a new standard in design. The KZ Noel collection is an expression of freedom and individuality, while maintaining a classic and timeless appeal. It’s for the confident bauble lover seeking to embrace their inner Tina Turner, David Bowie, or Lenny Kravitz. What I find most intriguing is Noel’s ability to encourage the consumer to embrace layering his/her jewelry, which creates a powerful statement.

It’s time to set your compass to follow the trail being blazed by KZ Noel …

UPTOWN: Did you channel any iconic figures when developing the lines and appeal of your collection?
Noel: My lines is a bit of glamour from Diahann Carroll in Dynasty and a bit of rock and roll edge from Grammy Award-winning and certified platinum recording artist Pink.

U: Where do you find inspiration for each collection?
Noel: Most all of my inspiration comes from my travels. I think that there is something very special about travel and the way new places and spaces free your creative spirit.

U: What brand in the market place past or present, in your opinion, represents the success you would like to achieve for your own line?
Noel: Kimberly McDonald has set a new standard in introducing the customer to geodes, agate, and uncut diamonds. The Tracy Reece brand has expanded into so many arenas beyond fashion. That is every designer’s dream!

U: Celebrity capital has become such an important resource in the fashion industry. What celebrity personality would you choose to be your brand ambassador and why?
Noel: That is such a difficult question. There are so many celebrities that are becoming fashion icons. I would pick Rihanna, as she has so much of an edge and fire, yet has such a feminine classic side.

U: What’s next for your brand? Why should we stay tuned?
Noel: I am debuting a capsule collection of earrings, pendants, and necklaces in March. This small is collection is day-to-night rock star.

KZ Noel is available at KZNoel.com. Follow the brand on Facebook and Instagram.

For more than 15 years Patrick T. Cooper has consistently influenced fashion, art, and entertainment. With an innate creative ability, Cooper curates visual imagery that sets trends. Cooper mindfully manipulates color, texture, and layering to create a lifestyle and his mantra “Live in color,” which is an exercise to be and live freely. This attitude is evident in each uniquely designed piece of the Patrick T Cooper Resort Collection. For more information go to PatrickTCooper.com or follow him on social media @patricktcooper.

In anticipation of Super Bowl 50 on Feb. 7th, MINI USA tapped Serena Williams to star in its “Defy Labels” campaign. As the name suggests, we’ve all been labeled in some way or another, but it’s how we respond to those labels that matters. “With defiance at its core, the campaign inspires people to shed the labels society has placed upon them and instead define themselves,” according to the press release.

MINI USA’s 30-second Super Bowl ad, created by Butler, Shine, Stern & Partners (BSSP), embraces the labels the brand has experienced since the first MINI was built in 1959, but with one powerful message: This car doesn’t care what you call it.

Along with the ad, MINI has released an extended interview with Williams, in which she discusses her labels and motivation. Check it out below and remember “Those who defy labels, define themselves.”

The MINI USA #DefyLabels campaign also features T-Pain, Amy Wambach, Tony Hawk, and Randy Johnson, as well as non-celebrity MINI owners and members of the MINI John Cooper Works racing team.

By Patrick Cooper & Loren Childs

According to legend, Valentinus performed countless acts of love from healing the sick to marrying the forbidden. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we’re encouraging a different type of giving — unlocking your valentine’s heart with diamonds, rubies, pearls, and don’t forget furs. In our 14 Days of Valentines series, we are playing fashion cupid. Our hints will definitely aid in making your lover fall head over heels in bliss.

Feb. 1st: Jada Loveless

We are kicking off the 14 Days of Valentines in true V-day spirit. The Jada Loveless handbag collection features bold and bright alligator skins. The red and pink really pop and are surely festive for the celebration of love!

Classic Tote with vermeil rings, $16,850

Classic petite with amethyst and vermeil clasp, $8,470

Marie envelope clutch, $7,700

For more than 15 years Patrick T. Cooper has consistently influenced fashion, art, and entertainment. With an innate creative ability, Cooper curates visual imagery that sets trends. Cooper mindfully manipulates color, texture, and layering to create a lifestyle and his mantra “Live in color,” which is an exercise to be and live freely. This attitude is evident in each uniquely designed piece of the Patrick T Cooper Resort Collection. For more information go to PatrickTCooper.com or follow him on social media @patricktcooper.

In anticipation of Super Bowl 50 on Feb. 7th, MINI USA tapped T-Pain to star in its “Defy Labels” campaign. As the name suggests, we’ve all been labeled in some way or another, but it’s how we respond to those labels that matters. “With defiance at its core, the campaign inspires people to shed the labels society has placed upon them and instead define themselves,” according to the press release.

MINI USA’s 30-second Super Bowl ad, created by Butler, Shine, Stern & Partners (BSSP), embraces the labels the brand has experienced since the first MINI was built in 1959, but with one powerful message: This car doesn’t care what you call it.

Talentless. Ghetto. A gimmick are all labels T-Pain says he’s been given. Rather than trying to prove people wrong, he says he’s embraced the labels, much like MINI USA has. Check out T-Pain’s video below and remember “Those who defy labels, define themselves.”

The MINI USA #DefyLabels campaign also features Serena Williams, Amy Wambach, Tony Hawk, and Randy Johnson, as well as non-celebrity MINI owners and members of the MINI John Cooper Works racing team.

By Isoul Harris

One of our favorite addresses in New York, Bond Street, is not only home to superstar celebs, mega-rich financiers and uber-influential politicos, but the famously cobblestoned, two-block thoroughfare (between Broadway and Bowery) also houses the flagship store for the posh perfumery Bond No. 9. The brand’s newest scent, B9, is for any lover of deep, sumptuous fragrances. Beyond the cliché notion of “unisex,” B9 is an aroma spun with fantastic gardenia and blended with eye-opening citrus and top notes of musky saffron. There is only one prerequisite for possessing this gorgeously gender-fluid eau de parfum: good taste.

RELATED: 14 Days Of Valentines: The Jada Loveless Collection

By Satchel B. Jester

Merriam-Webster offers “something that enlightens or informs” as the definition of “light.” The strength and meaning of the word also became the basis that MC Lyte would fuel her career with, giving us over two decades (and counting) of music and well-calculated moves. Now, fresh off the inaugural presentation of her W.E.A.L.T.H. Experience retreat for women, the legendary lyricist, DJ, philanthropist and hip-hop pioneer is putting more MVP points on the board, making history via The White House, supporting the education of black men and starting most days before 6 a.m. Here, she swaps her headphones for a smart phone and chats about the power of the Lyte.

My first … album is 28 years old this year. Crazy.

My days are … strategic. I’m up during the 5 a.m. hour for prayer, meditation and exercise. I then grab coffee and dive into meetings and phone calls. At some point, I’ll do a “Lyte Mix” for Café Mocha, the radio show I’ve co-hosted for about five years and then knock the remainder of my to-do list out like a pro.

Being where I am now … with my journey, I’m able to look at what it means to be an artist from the viewpoint of having a genuine love for it and getting the passion out there, but also laying a foundation that can propel you into a lifelong journey of benefits. Not just personal capital, but also being able to hire people and keep them working and add to their livelihood.

My passion lies … in educating and uplifting tomorrow’s black leaders. After visiting Dilliard University and awarding two yearly $100,000 scholarships to young women, we introduced “Educate Our Men,” a scholarship platform for men attending HBCUs. To date, we’ve given away about six $50,000 awards. Education is key in all formats.

I’ve been called … the “Godmother in Hip-Hop” in an introduction before performing at “A Celebration of American Creativity: In Performance at the White House.” It was surreal to be the first female rapper to perform there, not to mention witnessing FLOTUS and POTUS rocking in their seats to Cha, Cha, Cha.

As a DJ … I’ve learned to be much more accepting of hip-hop than when I was just an artist. It’s about understanding the time that we’re in. I now know that when you make music you cannot just consider yourself. Everything counts. The meaning of music has changed as far as listening to it. It dictates lifestyle like never before.

I’m a firm believer that … I can do it all, just not at the same time.

I haven’t … spit a freestyle verse since I got my first check. This style ain’t free.

By Patrick T. Cooper

According to legend, Valentinus performed countless acts of love from healing the sick to marrying the forbidden. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we’re encouraging a different type of giving — unlocking your valentine’s heart with diamonds, rubies, pearls, and don’t forget furs. In our 14 Days of Valentines series, we are playing fashion cupid. Our hints will definitely aid in making your lover fall head over heels in bliss.

Feb. 2nd: Julian Chang

With Valentine’s day right around the corner, dates are the number one idea to create a spark, no matter if you’ve been your significant other for years or if it’s the official first date. These elegant V-Day options from Julian Chang’s Spring/Summer 2016 collection will sweep any man off his feet!

Chanel Jumpsuit, $480

Poly Top, $190; Uma Shorts $150

All available at JulianChang.com

For more than 15 years Patrick T. Cooper has consistently influenced fashion, art, and entertainment. With an innate creative ability, Cooper curates visual imagery that sets trends. Cooper mindfully manipulates color, texture, and layering to create a lifestyle and his mantra “Live in color,” which is an exercise to be and live freely. This attitude is evident in each uniquely designed piece of the Patrick T Cooper Resort Collection. For more information go to PatrickTCooper.com or follow him on social media @patricktcooper.